In the ever-evolving world of medical research, 2023 has proven to be a transformative one for our clinic. From embracing new studies to engaging with the community in novel ways, we’ve experienced remarkable growth and innovation. Join us as we take a journey through the highlights of the past year, celebrating the achievements that have brought us closer to understanding and finding new treatments for neurological diseases.
Record Volunteer Engagement and User-Friendly Website
In 2023, we reached a significant milestone as our clinic experienced its most active year to date. With a greater number of volunteer applications, and our state-of-the-art clinic at Eurocentral, our capacity to accommodate this increased interest in volunteering has been notable. This increase in those registering their interest to take part in a current study was particularly pronounced in our early detection studies and, most recently, Depression. As we have diversified into further neurological conditions, we were able to welcome volunteers from diverse backgrounds, including individuals as young as 18. This influx of volunteers serves as a testament to the significant strides we have taken in comprehending neurological diseases and underscores the substantial progress attainable when individuals step forward to contribute to essential research efforts.
Press Coverage: We are now NeuroClin
Our efforts did not go unnoticed. The year 2023 brought us substantial press coverage, particularly for our pioneering work in Parkinson’s research. This recognition not only underlined the significance of our work but also solidified our position as a leading research centre. It’s a testament to the dedication and expertise of our team in advancing the field of neurology.
MRI-Themed TV Adverts and Transparency
Earlier this year we took an innovative approach by launching new Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s TV adverts with a MRI theme. These adverts provided viewers with a glimpse into our research processes, and the role of MRI in our studies. This creative initiative succeeded in raising awareness and fostering a deeper understanding of our work.
Volunteer Stories with Alison Walker
One of the most heart-warming initiatives of the year was the recording of Volunteer Stories, a project made possible with the help of TV presenter Alison Walker, whose parents are both living with Alzheimer’s and Vascular Dementia. These touching personal accounts highlighted the motivations behind volunteering and shared the profound experiences of our volunteers. These stories humanised our mission and showcased the incredible impact that volunteer participation can have on both individuals and the broader community.
Greater Visibility
In addition to our presence on TV and social media, we also prominently featured at Queen Street train station during Dementia Awareness Week. This strategic placement ensured that our message connected with a wider audience, enhancing awareness and comprehension of neurological diseases.
Intern Programme and Diversification with Depression Study
Our Intern Programme, now in its second year, continued to provide work experience and valuable opportunities for those interested in the field of neurology. Simultaneously, we expanded our research portfolio with the introduction of the Depression study in September. This move allowed us to diversify into new neurological fields, welcoming volunteers as young as 18. It underscored our adaptability and commitment to addressing evolving medical needs.
Sponsorship of Glasgow City Football Club and Community Engagement
In July, we established a significant partnership with Glasgow City Football Club, marking a pioneering step for NeuroClin as the new sleeve and matchday programme sponsor for the 2023/24 season. This partnership enables us to engage with a broader audience and promote vital information about neurology. The shared values and objectives of our organisation and the club made this collaboration a natural fit. Our association with Glasgow City FC is especially meaningful, considering the distinct link between women and neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Dementia. Research indicates that women are more susceptible to these conditions and often play a key role as caregivers for those affected. Through this partnership, we aim to highlight the gender-specific aspects of neurological diseases and champion enhanced awareness, research, and support focused on women’s health.
Rebranding as NeuroClin
After more than two decades as the ‘Glasgow Memory Clinic,’ we officially rebranded to better reflect our evolving focus. This change reflects our commitment to researching and tackling a broader spectrum of neurological diseases while emphasising our consistency in maintaining the same dedicated team.
Looking Forward to 2024
As we set our sights on 2024, we are excited to announce a new 12-week Alzheimer’s study for which we are actively recruiting participants. This study is designed to make research more accessible to individuals of ‘working age,’ emphasising the benefits of research participation.
Furthermore, our clinical team will be actively engaging with more community groups in 2024. If you are a member of an Alzheimer’s, Dementia, Parkinson’s, or Depression group and are looking for a speaker or would like to learn more, please get in touch.
As we bid farewell to 2023, we are proud the progress we’ve achieved thus far. The increase in volunteer engagement, the launch of innovative studies, successful collaborations, and our unwavering commitment to community outreach all exemplify our dedication to improving the lives of those affected by neurological diseases.
Thank you for being a part of our journey.
